In Uttar Pradesh’s Amroha district, 23-year-old Gulfiza died after allegedly being forced to drink acid by her in-laws over dowry demands. Married about a year ago to Parvez in Kalakheda village under Didauli police jurisdiction, Gulfiza faced persistent harassment as her in-laws demanded Rs 10 lakh in cash and a car.
On August 11, the accused forcibly made her consume acid, causing critical injuries. After battling for life in hospital for 17 days, she succumbed to her wounds on Thursday. Following a complaint by her father, police registered a case against seven people including her husband, and are awaiting the post-mortem report to add dowry death murder charges and proceed with arrests.
Dowry Harassment Culminates in Brutal Acid Attack
Gulfiza’s family disclosed that the dowry harassment began soon after her marriage, with the in-laws exerting relentless pressure for an exorbitant dowry. On August 11, this alleged abuse escalated to a horrific attack where she was allegedly forcibly given acid at her in-laws’ home. Neighbours alerted Gulfiza’s family, who immediately took her to a private hospital, later referring her to a facility in Moradabad due to her critical condition.
Despite intensive medical treatment, she passed away after 17 days. City Circle Officer Shakti Singh said that an FIR was lodged against seven accused, including husband Parvez and other family members, under sections related to cruelty by in-laws and attempt to murder. The charges will be upgraded to murder following receipt of the post-mortem report, with police actively pursuing the accused, some of whom remain at large.
Broader Context of Dowry Violence in Uttar Pradesh
This tragic incident is another distressing example of the endemic dowry-related violence affecting women in rural Uttar Pradesh despite strict laws like the Dowry Prohibition Act. The demand for dowries often leads to horrific abuse, with acid attacks being one of the most brutal manifestations.
A similar recent case in Greater Noida involved a woman being set ablaze by her in-laws over dowry disputes. While legal protections exist, enforcement challenges and societal pressures contribute to continued abuse. Authorities have assured a thorough investigation and swift justice for Gulfiza’s family, but many activists stress the importance of changing social mindsets alongside legal measures.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Gulfiza’s untimely death is a heartbreaking reminder of the urgent necessity to eliminate dowry harassment and protect women’s fundamental rights. The Logical Indian firmly condemns all violence rooted in regressive traditions like dowry and calls for fostering empathy, respect, and equality within families and communities. Legal actions, though critical, must be complemented by societal change that upholds human dignity and compassion.
